Best Serger For Beginners: Serger Buying Guide in 2023

Are you wondering if a serger would take your sewing to the next level? Here’s your guide to selecting the best serger for beginners.

Selecting the Best Serger for Beginners

Sewing with a serger opens up a whole new world of possibilities. Your sewing projects will look more professional, your seams more durable, and you’ll have an easier time working with certain fabrics like knits. You can perform an array of new stitching and finishes.

But if you’ve never used a serger before, shopping for a new machine is a bit intimidating. Finding the best serger for beginners takes work. You want a machine that’s basic and user-friendly, but also robust enough to handle your future projects as you learn and branch out.

April is a National serger month in America, so many stores offer big clearance and very good prices for sergers. Below is a screenshot of sergers for sale in the online store Sewing machines plus. It’s only one page (there are more pages!)  but look how many models! Do you know how to choose the best serger for YOU? 

Note: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means I will receive a commission if you order a product through one of my links. I only recommend products I believe in and use myself. 

If you’re new to sewing with a serger, you should also prepare to research the different brands and models available. Sergers range wildly in price—from a basic $200 machine to thousands of dollar high-end models. Don’t get too sticker-shocked though; you can find well-made machines at an affordable price, but it requires investigation.

✅ Related article: What Is A Serger & What Can I Do With It?

Here, you’ll find all the details you need to help you through selecting the best serger for beginner sewists. If you’re wondering how to sew with a serger, and if it’s worth the investment, here’s what you need to know.

Best Serger For The Money

Not all sergers are created equal, and finding the best serger for the money can be a challenge. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which serger will provide the best value for your investment.

One of the top contenders for the best serger for the money is the Brother Serger 1034D.

The Brother Serger 1034D is designed with a durable metal frame and interior components, ensuring it can withstand heavy use. This high-performance machine can handle various materials, even multiple layers of denim, making it suitable for various sewing projects. With the ability to sew up to 1,300 stitches per minute, you can complete your tasks more quickly and efficiently.

What makes this serger stand out is its easy-to-use, color-coded upper thread guide and lower looper threading system, making threading a breeze. Moreover, the 1034D even comes with three snap-on accessory feet – standard, gathering, and blind stitch – to help you achieve different finishes on your projects.

Read customer reviews of a Brother 1034D Serger on Amazon here

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Here is the link to Amazon for best sellers in sergers for 2023 but read on to find out how to buy the best serger for beginners

The number one serger on this Amazon best sellers list is Brother 1034D Serger, Heavy-Duty Metal Frame Overlock Machine, 1,300 Stitches Per Minute, Removeable Trim Trap, 3 Included Accessory Feet

And number 2 is SINGER | Making The Cut S0230 Serger 4 Thread, Differential Feed, 1300 Stitches Per Min-Sewing Made Easy Serger, Blue

Best Self-Threading Serger

A self-threading serger is a type of sergers that automates the process of threading the loopers and needles. This means that instead of manual threading, the machine has a mechanism that guides the thread through the needles automatically, saving you time and effort.

Self-threading sergers are especially useful for beginners who often find the threading process tedious or challenging.

In my opinion, the best self-threading serger is Juki MO-2000. I have the machine for 5 years already and I love to use it.

It uses a blast of air to feed the thread through the machine’s threading path. The machine has a built-in air compressor that generates a powerful burst of air that pushes the thread through the loopers, making the threading process faster and easier. Air-threading is a popular feature in high-end sergers and you can read more about it in my article The Self-Threading Serger – Yes, It Exists!

Finding the Best Serger that’s Right for You

As you look for the best serger for beginners, you should ask yourself what types of projects you enjoy. Are you hoping to do basic sewing and alterations, or are you looking for a full-featured model to maximize your creative potential?

It’s essential to look at your plans for the future as well. Like with your sewing machine, you may start with basic projects, but as you build your skills, you’ll find more and more uses for your serger. For example, some sergers create a coverstitch, as mentioned above. This option gives a nice finished edge to shirts, pant legs, and other knit projects.

✅ Related article: Coverstitch vs. Serger

Many sergers also offer limited decorative stitching, such as the chainstitch. Chain stitching looks particularly nice when using a serger for denim and cotton projects. Sergers easily handle heavier fabric, making them an excellent choice for upholstery and thick fabrics (like denim). Sergers create beautiful rolled hems and are useful for adding fine, thin elastic (this often requires an elasticated foot).

One serger stitch that’s a nice option is a flatlock seam. If you’ve worn yoga pants or stretchy pants, you’ve likely seen this flat seam that “locks” edges together without creating extra fabric (making it comfortable for activewear). The flatlock seam is also useful for bathing suits and swimwear. 

Ask yourself what you hope to accomplish with your serger. How much do you want to spend, and how much use do you plan to get out of your new serger? If you’re a beginner, you may only work on a handful of projects per year, but if you’re working on new projects daily or weekly, you’ll quickly get your money’s worth.

Again, there are plenty of options out there at a wide range of prices. Do your research, and as I recommended in my shopping for sewing machine post, read the reviews (especially if you buy online) and look for a model with a reliable history (even if it’s last year’s model).

I like Baby Lock sergers very much but most of their sergers cost 1000’s dollars. However, Baby Lock Vibrant serger is affordable! And it’s on sale a few times per year, especially in April (which is a National Serger Month in America)

Look at price, customer satisfaction, and the number of reviews. Comparison shop and check reputable sources. You may want to look at serger reviews on Consumer Reports, as well as online retailers.  

What Features to Look for in the Best Serger for Beginners

Now that you know what a serger does, what features should you watch for when you shop?

Number of Threads in Best Sergers for Beginners

How many threads does the serger use? Most sergers use 3 and 4, but some offer the ability to do decorative stitching and use up to 8! If you’re looking for a serger for beginners, you should generally start with 4 thread sergers. The number of threads determines the types of stitches the serger is capable of. If you want a serger that has coverstitches and chain stitches then consider sergers with 5-8 threads.

For example, Pfaff Coverlock 4.0 is a 5-thread machine. Babylock Triumph is an 8-thread serger. 

• If you are looking for your first serger buy 4 thread serger (my opinion). Check out these great Juki sergers
• JUKI MO654DE
• Juki MO-80CB Free-Arm Serger

Needle System

What type of needles does your serger require? Most sergers use the same kind of needles as regular sewing machines, making a broken needle easy to repair or replace. Others use specialized needles that are sometimes pricey or hard to find. A serger can use a single needle for stitching, 2 needles at once, and a serger/coverstitch combo machine can sew with 3 needles at once. 

What sergers use special needles? Singer sergers used needles different from home sewing machines needles. Also, the serger/coverstitch combo machines use special needles. For example, Babylock Triumph uses EL-705 CF needles and they are different from home sewing machine needles. 

So if you are looking for your first serger – buy one that’s using regular sewing machine needles. For example, this excellent Juki serger Juki MO-1000 2/3/4 Thread Serger with Air Supported Threading

✅ Related article: All About Serger Needles

Ease of Threading

Many sewists know the struggle of threading a serger! Older versions were very confusing to thread, using a complicated process that seemed hard to follow especially from the beginning. Newer machines often feature color-coded threading systems that are much easier to use.

Many sergers don’t have anything that helps to thread the needles. Then you need to be comfortable with threading the needles manually. Check my video tutorial on how to thread the sewing machine needle easily – you need to see the different ways of threading. 

But some sergers have special attachments to thread needles. For example, my Juki QVP MO-2000 has a special and very helpful needle threader. 

✅ Related tutorial: The Self-Threading Serger – Yes, it Exists!

Tension System

 How do you adjust the tension? Does the serger offer automatic tensioning? Most sergers use dials or tension disks, some have buttons on screens. Some computerized models of sergers can adjust tensions automatically – it means that they have sensors that adjust the tension according to the thread type, fabric type, and the selected stitch. 

How easy is it to release the tension? Can you pull the threads easily when the presser foot is up?

Ease of Stitch Width and Length Adjustment

How difficult or easy is it to adjust the stitch width and length? Those familiar with standard sewing machines know stitch length and width make a world of difference in the sewing process as well as your finished product. Sergers are no different—you’ll want a machine that’s easy to adjust.

Look for adjustable settings for all types of fabrics and techniques.

Retractable Knife

Modern sergers feature a retractable knife, which is necessary for projects where you don’t want the edge cut. Flatlock stitching and decorative topstitching don’t require a knife, so if you plan to do projects with this type of stitch, you’ll need a serger with the upper knife that you can disengage. 

Number of Different Stitches

What types of stitches does the serger perform? Can you do a flatlock stitch? Does the serger create a beautifully finished coverstitch? Can you do other decorative topstitching with the machine? For beginners, a simple serger may offer plenty for your basic needs. You can always upgrade to a more robust machine down the road.

Look for a machine that offers the right stitch for every fabric – from lightweight silk chiffon to heavyweight denim. 

Some sergers offer 5 types of stitches, some15 and some can do 25 and up different stitches. 

Ease of converting to coverstitch and back

This is a very important feature if you want to buy a serger/coverstitch combo machine. How easy is it to change from overlock stitches to coverstitches? 

I had a serger/coverstitch machine combo – it was the first one on the market, and it was a nightmare to convert from overlock to coverstitch. So I got rid of that machine and bought a separate coversttich – Janome, and I am so glad I did!

But modern combo machines (especially very expensive models) are different and you can convert the machine easily. 

Check out my tutorial Serger vs. Coverstitch for more info.

Presser Feet

Specialty presser feet will help you do an array of different stitches with your serger. Blind hemming, gathering, piping, beading, and ruffles are just a few of the options. As mentioned before, the elasticator foot helps you add elastic to the edge of your projects for swimwear, children’s clothing, and lingerie. What types of presser feet does the manufacturer include with the machine? Could you upgrade with more specialty feet later? How difficult is it to change out the presser feet? Do they snap on, or do you need to dismantle the machine to change them? 

Disengaging the upper looper (or 2 thread converter)

Can you easily disengage the upper looper? It’s an important feature for a serger. Some sergers don’t have it at all and because of this, you can’t sew many types of serger stitches with only 2 threads. Some sergers have a built-in “changeover attachment” (that’s how they call it sometimes), and some sergers have it as a separate accessory. 

Differential Feed/Feed Dog Adjustment

Does a serger have a differential feed? This is a very useful feature that helps control puckering or stretching. The feed dogs that pull the fabric through your serger should easily adjust as needed. In a serger, the feed dog system uses two sets of feed dogs, unlike a standard sewing machine, which uses only one. The differential feed allows these feed dogs to move at slightly different paces, so you don’t end up with uneven “pulling” when stitching knit fabrics; this helps prevent a “wavy” finish.

Rolled Hem Option

Rolled hems look beautiful along the edges of ruffles, scarves, and home decorating projects. Having the rolled hem option on your serger allows you to do fun and creative stitchery. While the rolled hem option is relatively common, basic machines may not include this setting, so it’s essential to check before you buy.

Stitch Speed/Speed Control

What are the stitch speed and speed control like on your potential machine? Is it easy to adjust with a pedal? Or is there a special button or dial for electronic speed control? Sergers are surprisingly FAST! But when you’re working with blades, four different threads, AND learning a new device, it quickly gets overwhelming. Make sure you can easily adjust the stitch speed so you don’t get a “trigger happy” machine.

✅ Related tutorial: DIY non-slip foot pedal pad – a video sewing tutorial

LCD Touch Screen

Some modern sergers have LCD Graphic Touch Screen. It’s an amazing feature. You can see all the necessary information for a selected stitch. 

Memory

Some computerized sergers have built-in memory so that you can save your own settings for each stitch. And some machines conveniently keep the last sewn stitch so that when you turn it back on you can continue with your project.  

Free Arm

Like a free arm on a sewing machine, a free arm on sergers allows you to fit sleeves, armholes, pant legs, and other circular projects onto the machine for easy hemming and finishing.  

✅ Related tutorial: Free Arm Sewing Machine: Do I Need One?

Waste Collector

This is a small feature, but it’s nice to have. As your machine cuts off the excess fabric edge of your seam, where does the refuse go? Many sergers include a small waste collection bin attached to the machine. it helps keep your sewing space neat and tidy. Of course, you will still need to dust and use a brush to clean your serger regularly. 

Light

Consider the light source of the sewing area – does it have enough light for optimal visibility?

Extra presser foot height

Some serger has this very useful feature – extra presser foot height so you can have a space for several layers or heavy fabrics.

Thread cutter

Does a serger have a thread cutter so you can conveniently cut thread tails fast without scissors? 

Accessory Storage

Another nice-to-have (but completely optional) feature is an accessory storage compartment. Storage is common in many sewing machines but not many sergers have it. Usually, it’s a small pop-out drawer built into the base of the machine to hold extra presser feet, needles, and other components.

Brand Reputation

When you’ve found a machine with all the features you want, check out the brand reputation. You may want to find one or two different models with your desired features and compare the reviews and standings.  

Warranties

If you’re down to a few options, compare the warranties on each machine. Some brands offer a robust repair and warranty program. Others offer limited customer support and follow-up. If you buy a serger on Amazon or through another retailer, you may forgo the warranties that come from purchasing a machine from a specific sewing machine dealer.  

Ease of Repair

When it comes to repairs, a reputable retailer is crucial. When you buy a machine through a serger and sewing machine specialty shop, you know where to go if you run into a problem. Yes, it’s challenging to haul your machine to the store, but having hands-on help makes an outsized difference when you get stuck and need guidance for a simple adjustment. Beginners need support with their machines!

Price Range

Finally, the price range is always significant. If you’re going to invest several hundred or thousand dollars on a serger, you want it to offer all the features you need at a reasonable price. When selecting the best serger for beginners, you probably don’t need the newest model. You may find a terrific price on a model that’s older.

Serger Brands and Models to Consider When Choosing the Best Serger for Beginners

What are the most reputable and common serger brands out there? I wanted to give you an objective look at the features you should explore when you shop for your first serger. Each of these brands has pros and cons, which often vary from model to model.

Your sewing needs are unique, depending on the projects you like to do, the frequency of your use, and your sewing style. Before deciding based on brand name or reputation alone, research all of the factors above to weigh your decision carefully. 

The reputable serger brands to explore are:

·         Brother

·         Baby Lock

·         Janome

·         Singer

·         Juki

·         Bernina

·         Pfaff

·         Elna

Read my review of the Juki MO 2000 serger here. I found the Juki MO 2000 is a nice serger for beginners, but again, you must weigh the cost against your planned usage. It’s a bit more expensive than some of the other models.

If you regularly sew clothes and you’re looking for more durability and advanced professional features, then a serger is a great step for beginners. Decide exactly which features are most important to you and then weigh the capacity of the different machines and models. Read the reviews and, if possible, go to a retailer who will guide you through your purchase. You may even want to inquire about lessons and hands-on tutorials to help you begin.

Once you’ve started using a serger, I think you’ll enjoy the extra finesse it adds to your sewing projects. It takes a while to get the hang of it, but it’s well worth the effort for beautiful, durable projects with a professional finish.

Did you find this serger buying guide helpful? If so, save this pin (see below) on your sewing board so you can come to this tutorial later when you are ready to buy the best serger for beginners, and follow me on Pinterest for more tips, tutorials, and inspiration!

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